Waco on guard after deadly shootings, more than 170 face charges

Authorities are on guard in Waco after a shootout among rival motorcycle gangs at a restaurant left nine bikers dead and raised the specter of further violence. This as police announced more than 170 people have been arrested and the restaurant/bar where it happened has been closed.

Police had initially announced that 192 people were arrested Monday morning and booked into the McLennan County Jail but they have now lowered that number. Those arrested are charged with engaging in organized crime.

Police also announced that the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission closed Twin Peaks, located in Central Market off of I-35 near New Road, for a week amid safety concerns. Sgt. W. Patrick Swanton said Monday that law enforcement overnight received threats from various biker groups and that the TABC, responsible for alcohol regulations and compliance, than decided to close Twin Peaks for seven days.

Authorities increased security to quell other possible attempts at criminal activity following the melee Sunday at Twin Peaks that also left 18 bikers wounded.

The violence erupted as members of at least five rival gangs gathered for a meeting.

Police say a dispute broke out, escalated to include knives and firearms and eventually spilled into the restaurant parking lot.

Parts of downtown were on lockdown Sunday night, and officials could be seen stopping and questioning motorcycle riders.

McLennan County Sheriff Parnell McNamara says the nine dead were members of the Bandidos or Cossacks gangs.

The Associated Press contributed to this report. It is an update to a previous story. The original version is as follows: